WASHINGTON (AP) — The Commerce Department on Friday announced new restrictions on U.S. firearms exports in an effort to prevent the guns from ending up in the hands of drug traffickers and criminals in other nations.
Oversight of legal firearms exports has become a political struggle in Washington since the Trump administration in 2020 moved oversight from the State Department to the Commerce Department — a move that was widely seen as favorable to the firearms industry. President Joe Biden during his 2020 campaign pledged to reverse the move “if needed.” Some Democratic lawmakers in Congress have since scrutinized the rate of approvals for gun exports, including semi-automatic guns, saying they lead to violence and unrest around the world.
The Commerce Department in October put a freeze on gun exports, which was criticized by the National Rifle Association as well as Republican lawmakers. On Friday, the Commerce Department said it would lift the hold on exports starting May 30, but with new rules and tougher review standards.
Yu Darvish extends scoreless innings streak to 25 in Padres' 9
Satellite photos suggest Iran air defense radar struck in Isfahan during apparent Israeli attack
Analysis: How Inter Milan won its 20th Serie A title and Inzaghi his first as coach
Spanish women among top Laureus winners and Djokovic is world sportsman of the year
Travis Kelce downs whiskey shot on slice of bread at Kelce Jam without Taylor Swift
Cleveland Guardians are off to a blazing start with MLB's best record under rookie manager
Analysis: How Inter Milan won its 20th Serie A title and Inzaghi his first as coach
Foundation to convene 3rd annual summit on anti
Cleveland Guardians are off to a blazing start with MLB's best record under rookie manager
Bella Hadid goes braless in a thigh
KC Current owners announce plans for stadium district along the Kansas City riverfront